Coronavirus York updates; 15th July 2021

Hospital patients and deaths

Test results

146 positive test results today. They bring the cumulative total up to 15,721

Case numbers have fallen from 878 to 861

The rate /100k population is 408.81. This is the lowest it is likely to be for some time. Cases in the pipeline mean that a rise to a rate of around 444.,4 is likely on Saturday.

Neighbourhoods

Vaccinations

510 vaccinations were completed in the City yesterday (first plus second jabs). That is the lowest figure for several weeks. It is understood this is due to a downturn in people coming forward for a vaccination, rather than any capacity issues.

In some parts of the City, as few as 60% have even had their first jab.

The authorities need a fresh approach. Possibly mobile “vax vans” could tour neighbourhoods with a low take up rate? Something certainly needs to be done to reinvigorate the vaccination campaign. We are only days away from a final relaxation of restricitons. The government predicts that infection rates will then soar. Vaccination remains the main bulwark against rising infection rates.

Tests

  • 8257 PCR tests were carried out during the week ending 10th July 2021
  • Of these, 10.6% were positive. That is lower than the 10.7% positivity found during the previous period.
  • 3464 “lateral flow” tests were also conducted on 14th July.

Coronavirus York updates; 15th June 2021

Government advice

Although York is not yet classed as an area where the Delta strain of the virus is most prolific, here is some advice from the government.

The new COVID-19 variant (known as Delta) spreads more easily than the other variants that were previously most common. To help stop the spread, you should:

  • Get both doses of the vaccine when you are offered it, and encourage others to do so as well
  • Participate in surge testing in your local area, whether you are vaccinated or not
  • Self-isolate immediately if you have any symptoms of COVID-19 (a high temperature, a new, continuous cough or a loss or change to your sense of smell or taste) or if you’ve tested positive for COVID-19

You should also take particular caution when meeting anyone outside your household or support bubble. Wherever possible, you should try to:

  • Meet outside rather than inside where possible
  • Keep 2 metres apart from people that you do not live with (unless you have formed a support bubble with them), this includes friends and family you don’t live with
  • Minimise travel in and out of affected areas

The full government advice can be viewed by clicking here

York hospital patients and deaths

The York Hospital Trust has recorded its first COVID-19 death since 20th April. The fatality occurred on Friday. It brings the total number of deaths up to 593 since the start of the pandemic

The number of coronavirus patients being cared for by the Trust has increased to 6

The latest figures, covering the deaths’ of York residents, reveal that there was one fatality in a care home during the week ending 4th June.

The death brings the total toll among York residents, since the pandemic started, up to 379. This included (at 4th June) 221 hospital deaths, 128 in care homes, 22 at home and 8 in a hospice.

Test results

21 positive test results were announced today. Brings the cumulative total up to 12,649

The number of cases in the City has risen from 108 to 116

The rate /100k population has risen to 55.08. That is the highest rate recorded since 27th February 2021.

It is trending up to reach over 70+ before the end of the week

Neighbourhoods

Only 5 neighbourhoods now have fewer than 3 cases.

A big step up in case numbers is expected over next three days

Vaccinations

874 vaccinations were completed in the City yesterday (Monday)

Tests

  • 5319 PCR tests were conducted during the week ending 10th June 2021
  • Of these, 2.0% were positive. That is an increase on the 1.9% found during the previous period.
  • In addition, 3044 “lateral flow” tests were also completed on 14th June.

York Council reacts to announcement about continuing restrictions

City of York Council have responded following the Prime Minister’s announcement relating to the delayed easing of COVID-19 restrictions.

Councillor Keith Aspden, Leader of City of York Council said:

We know today’s news is frustrating for many who had high hopes for next week, however, there are still reasons to be optimistic. The vaccine rollout is continuing successfully and many of our local businesses have reopened safely giving us all the chance to once again enjoy so much that our city has to offer. Hopefully soon, with more people vaccinated, we will be able to take that next step safely.

“Throughout this pandemic, communities across York have come together and worked hard to look after each other. It has been a long and challenging period for us all, but I would encourage everyone to please keep going. Better times are ahead, as more of us get first and second doses of the vaccine.

“We are pleased though to see changes in the numbers allowed to attend weddings and civil partnership ceremonies, where social distancing measures allow. This will make a huge difference to many couples having their special day. Our Register Office will continue to support couples and will be contacting those who have booked ceremonies with us with further details. We will share more details when the guidance is published.

“We know this is difficult news for people and businesses who will be most directly impacted by this announcement. We will continue to support you, as we have done throughout the pandemic, and we will share more updates as guidance and information becomes available. Please continue to shop at local businesses who are working so hard to keep people safe.

“If you’re struggling to manage, or you don’t have any support, but need it because of COVID-19, please get in touch by emailing covid19help@york.gov.uk or calling telephone: 01904 551550. Businesses severely impacted by today’s announcement can get contact us by emailing the council’s Economic Growth team at economicgrowth@york.gov.uk.”

Fiona Phillips, Assistant Director of Public Health said:

Whilst today’s news is disappointing, with increasing cases and hospital admissions across the country and the presence of the delta variant, it isn’t surprising.

“In recent days we have seen cases increase across York – it is vital that we all remain vigilant and keep each other safe.

“This has been a challenging time, but please keep going and check in on friends and family who may be struggling. Help is at hand should people need it and it is important we look after our mental health as well as physical health.

“Whilst the vaccine roll out is going very well, many in the city are yet to have the vaccine and get that protection. We know too with the delta variant how important a second dose is to boosting immunity so please when you get invited get both doses. Please help keep each other safe and the city open by continuing to:

  • wash your hands regularly
  • wear a face covering in busy public spaces and where asked
  • give people space
  • meet outside, or open windows letting fresh air indoors
  • get tested regularly; see more information about symptom-free testing
  • get the vaccine when you are eligible and get that second dose; See more information and book an appointment on the NHS website

“The vaccines are working and saving lives. This and the fact they are being administered in great numbers means that better times are ahead. The slowing of the roadmap gives the opportunity for more people to be protected in the hope we can have a great and safe summer.”

Coronavirus York updates 26th March 2021

Deaths

No further hospital deaths today. There have been no fatalities recorded by the York Hospital Trust for 8 days now.

Test results

Sixteen additional positive tests today. Brings the cumulative total to 12,176.

The number of cases has increased from 63 to 65 today

As forecast, the infection rate has increased today to 30.86. On current trends, it is expected to remain above 30 throughout next week.

The infection rate has increased at every level (City, county, region and national) today. The reasons for this setback are unclear.

Neighbourhoods

There has been an increase in case numbers in Holgate East.

Otherwise most other neighbourhoods are stable. Only 2 neighbourhoods now have infection rates above the national average.

Infection rates have risen in the neighbouring Selby and Harrogate areas.

Vaccinations

Tests

4600 PCR tests were conducted during the week ending 21st March

Of these, 1.3% were positive. That is a lower rate than the 1.4% recorded the previous day

2930 “lateral flow” tests were also conducted on 25th March

Council commentary

The York Council has updated its commentary on “open data” about the pandemic. It is reproduced below for ease of reference

The data is accurate as at 8.00 a.m. on Friday 26.03.21. Some narrative for the data covering the latest period is provided here below:

People with Covid Symptoms

• NHS Pathways/111 triages – as at 22.3.21 there had been 56 total covid triages in the CYC area in the last 7 days. The peak number of triages was 653 in the 7 day period to 20.9.20.

• As at 25.3.21, the Covid Symptom App estimates 164 per 100,000 in York with symptomatic covid (responses from a sample of 4,428 people). The peak rate was 1,283 on 7.1.21.

Diagnosed cases

• As at 25.3.21 York has had 12,160 cases since the start of the pandemic, a rate of 5,774 per 100,000 of population. The cumulative rate in York is below the national (6,713) and regional (6,850) averages.

• The PHE ‘Exceedance’ rating compares the no. of new cases over a 14 day period with the previous 6 weeks and provides a RAG rating to indicate if the previously observed trend in the no. of new cases is worsening. The latest rating for York (22.3.21) is Amber.

• The provisional rate of new Covid cases per 100,000 of population for the period 17.3.21 to 23.3.21 in York is 32.3 (using data published on Gov.uk on 25.3.21).

• The latest official “validated” rate of new Covid cases per 100,000 of population for the period 14.3.21 to 20.3.21 was 29.9. The national and regional averages at this date were 55.5 and 109.1 respectively (using data published on Gov.uk on 25.3.21).

• York is currently ranked 33rd out of 149 Upper Tier Local Authorities (UTLAs) in England with a rank of 1 indicating the lowest 7 day rate.

• For the 7 day period 13.3.21.to 19.3.21, 2 wards have seen a statistically significant fall in their rate compared with the 7 day period 6.3.21 to 12.3.21 (Huntington & New Earswick and Fishergate). The remaining wards have shown no significant change. Ward rates currently vary from 0 to 108.3 per 100,000. 6 wards had zero cases in the latest period.

• The rate of new Covid cases per 100,000 of population for the period 14.3.21 to 20.3.21 for people aged 60+ in York was 4.0. The national and regional averages were 21.1 and 34.7 respectively.

• As at 23.3.21, the latest 7 day positivity rate in York (Pillar 2 PCR tests only) was 1.58%. The national and regional averages are 2.6% and 5.2% respectively.

• As at 23.3.21 the latest 7 day positivity rate in York (Pillar 2 Lateral Flow Tests only) was 0.10%. The national and regional averages are 0.1% and 0.3% respectively.

• As at 23.3.21 the latest 7 day positivity rate in York (Pillar 1 tests only) was 1.4%. The national average is 1.1%.

• As at 19.3.21 York University reported 6 individuals within the University community who were currently self-isolating because they have had a positive COVID-19 test. The peak number was 331 on the 19.10.20.

• As at 15.3.21 York St. John reported 1 individual within the University community who was currently self-isolating because they have had a positive COVID-19 test. The peak number was 82 on the 8.10.20.

Contact Tracing

• Since 28.5.20 a total of 11,301 confirmed CYC Covid cases have been uploaded into the NHS Test and Trace system and 10,191 of the cases have been completed (90.2%). 26,290 ‘contacts’ have been identified and 19,909 of these have been completed (75.7%). Source: PHE Report.

• Local Tracing of Cases: Between 22.10.20 and 19.3.21, 1,019 referrals had been actioned by the local contact tracing service. Of the referrals actioned, 670 (65.8%) were successful and 349 (34.2%) were unable to be reached via phone or home visit, but guidance leaflets were posted where possible.

Cases in Residential Care Settings

• As at 25.3.21 there was 1 care home in the CYC area with confirmed Covid-19 infection (at least 1 case of either a staff member or resident).

• The latest ‘outbreak’ (2+ cases) in a residential care setting in York was reported by PHE on 25.2.21 (1 home).

Cases amongst School Aged Children

• In the 7 days up to 22.3.21 there were 16 children of primary and secondary school age who tested positive across 11 schools.

COVID Bed Occupancy in York Hospital

• As at 23.3.21 there were 14 confirmed Covid-19 patients in General and Acute beds. The peak number was 157 on 19.1.21.

• As at 23.3.21 there were 4 confirmed Covid-19 patients and 0 suspected Covid-19 patient in the Intensive Treatment Unit. The peak number for people in ITU was 19 on 10.5.20.

• As at 23.3.21 there had been 0 patients admitted with suspected Covid-19 and 0 with confirmed Covid-19 in the previous 24 hours.

• As at 23.3.21 there had been 1 confirmed patient discharged with COVID-19 in last 24 hours.

• Between 15.3.21 and 21.3.21, 8 CYC residents were discharged from York hospital after needing NHS care for symptoms linked to covid-19 infection.

R Number

• The ‘R’ value (the number of people that one infected person will pass on a virus to, on average) for the North East and Yorkshire area on 19.3.21 was estimated to be in the range 0.7 to 0.9. The previous estimate was (0.7 to 0.9) on 12.3.21.

Total Vaccinations

• As at 24.3.21 a total of 87,887 CYC residents have had the first dose of the vaccine. This represents 41.7% of the estimated total population of York and 50.5% of the estimated adult (18+) population of York.

• As at 24.3.21 a total of 7,441 CYC residents have had both doses of the vaccine. This represents 3.5% of the estimated total population of York and 4.3% of the estimated adult (18+) population of York.

Deaths

The two sources about deaths from Covid-19 at LA level are ONS data and local registrar data. They are derived from the same source (civil registration data). ONS data is more comprehensive as it includes deaths of York residents which have occurred and been registered outside York. Local registrar data is useful as it enables a breakdown by age and gender. The most recently available data is summarised below:

• ONS weekly data: In the most recent period (Week 10: 6.3.21 to 12.3.21) 3 Covid-19 deaths were recorded as having occurred for CYC residents. In weeks 7, 8 and 9 there had been 19, 6 and 6 deaths respectively.

• ONS Cumulative data: Since the start of the pandemic, for deaths occurring up to 12th March 2021 and registered up to 20th March 2021, 383 Covid-19 deaths were recorded as having occurred for CYC residents (223 in hospital, 131 in care homes, 21 at home and 8 in a hospice). The number of deaths per 100,000 of population in York is 181.5 which is lower than the national average of 226.1

• Local Registrar data (Cumulative): Since the start of the pandemic (using data for deaths occurring up to 10.3.21), a cumulative total of 367 deaths of CYC residents where COVID-19 was mentioned (confirmed or suspected) on the death certificate, have been registered. The average age of the people who died was 82.3, with an age range of 44-104. The age profile of those dying in York is older than the national average (80.1% of those who died in York were aged 75+ compared with 73.3% nationally). 176 of the 367 were male (48.0%), less than the national average (54.3%).

Coronavirus York updates; 13th February 2021

Deaths

One additional hospital death announced today. It occurred on Thursday

Test results

TWENTY THREE additional positive test results announced today. Brings the cumulative number of cases in the City to 11,542.

Rate /100k population figure has reduced to 109.68

The infection rate in York continues to fall more quickly than in other parts of the country

Neighbourhoods

For the first time since 16th December a neighbourhood (South Bank/Dringhouses) in York has recorded fewer than 3 infections.

The area with the highest number of cases in now Osbaldwick

Vaccinations

Over 2 million vaccinations have now been completed in the Yorkshire region

Hospitals

There are currently 133 COVID-19 patients being treated by the York Hospital Trust.

15 patients are in intensive care

Tests

4967 PCR coronavirus test were conducted during the week ending 8th February.

The positivity rate was 5.2%

1074 lateral flow tests were conducted on 12th February

York families urged to ‘stay safe’ this half term

York’s public health chiefs are urging residents to ‘stay safe’ over the coming week, as children and young people across the city start their half term holidays.

The week will mark a welcome break for many parents and carers who have been home schooling, but also presents extra challenges in keeping children entertained within the lockdown restrictions.
The break comes as York’s seven day rate continues to fall:

  • The latest official “validated” rate of new Covid cases per 100,000 of population for the period 31.1.21 to 6.2.21 was 134.8. 
  • York is currently ranked 25th out of 149 Upper Tier Local Authorities (UTLAs) in England with a rank of 1, indicating the lowest 7 day rate.
  • As at 8.2.21, the latest 7 day positivity rate in York (Pillar 2 PCR tests only) was 5.4%. The national and regional averages are 7.1% and 7.6% respectively.
  • As at 10.2.21, 45,596 CYC residents have received the first dose and 1,049 had received both doses.

Cllr Keith Aspden, Leader of City of York Council, said:

I know that many parents and carers will be glad of a break this week after their hard work homeschooling over the last half term.

“There are lots of activities that parents can do to keep their children active over the holiday period, but it’s vitally important that we all continue to follow the current national restrictions. The efforts we are all making a real difference, however we still need to keep going.

“With vaccinations continuing to be carried out at pace in York, there is light at the end of the tunnel and we must all keep up our efforts to fight the spread of the virus.”

Thousands of frontline workers are continuing to support York’s efforts against the virus by getting regular symptom free testing.

The city now has three sites offering the testing to residents, workers, students and staff who are eligible. More information about symptom free testing is available online.

York residents aged 70 or over who haven’t yet received their covid-19 vaccination can also now support the city’s fight against covid-19 by arranging a vaccination appointment.

Until now, the NHS asked people not to contact them about their COVID vaccination and wait until they are approached. This remains the case for most people, but local NHS services are encouraging people in priority cohorts 1-4 (over 70s and those on the shielded patient list) to contact the NHS to book their appointment to ensure everyone in this group is offered the vaccine by mid-February.

Eligible residents can book their appointment by contacting the national booking service online. Those who cannot do it online can call a free 119 number, anytime between 7am and 11pm seven days a week. The national system allows patients to pick a convenient location and time.

Sharon Stoltz, City of York Council’s Director of Public Health, said:

I would urge anyone aged 70 or over who hasn’t yet had their vaccination to make an appointment through the national booking service.

“The uptake of the vaccine so far in the city has been fantastic and making sure as many York residents as possible are vaccinated is one way we can continue to fight the virus and support our local NHS services.

“If you aren’t in one of the priority groups, please wait to be contacted, everyone will get the chance to book an appointment at the right time.

“We can all work together too by looking out for family and friends, particularly during this cold weather, and following the basic rules of regular hand washing, wearing of face coverings in public spaces when 2 metre social distancing is not possible and isolating at home if you have symptoms or have been asked to do so by NHS Test and Trace or our local contact tracing service.

“Whilst the fall in cases is encouraging we can’t let our guard down yet. There are still more people in hospital than the first peak and sadly we have seen a number of deaths in recent weeks.

“This virus isn’t relenting but our efforts and the incredible vaccine rollout is helping to stop the spread and offer real hope that things will get better. Thank you to everyone for their efforts, let’s keep going.”

The council’s Coronavirus helpline offers support including with food, essentials or someone to speak to. Anyone needing help can call 01904 551550 or email COVID19help@york.gov.uk.

There are lots of school holiday ideas and resources available online. Check out York Mumbler and Little Vikings for local resources.

Coronavirus York updates; 23rd June 2020

Deaths and Test results

York has a positive lab test result on 21st June. This was the first since 2nd June. There were none yesterday. The cumulative total of positive results in the City is 463

There were no additional Coronavirus related deaths at the York hospital

Further easing of lockdown restrictions

A whole raft of changes to social distancing and other health restrictions have been announced today. The new social distance will be “1 metre+”

Facilities allowed to open from 4th July will be

  • Pubs, bars and restaurants but only with a table service indoors, and owners will be asked to keep contact details of customers to help with contact tracing
  • Hotels, holiday apartments, campsites and caravan parks but shared facilities must be cleaned properly
  • Theatres and music halls but they will not be allowed to hold live performances
  • In other changes weddings will be allowed to have 30 attendees, and places of worship will be allowed to hold services but singing will be banned (!)
  • Hair salons and barbers will be able to reopen but must put protective measures, such as visors, in place
  • Libraries, community centres and bingo halls
  • Cinemas, museums and galleries
  • Funfairs, theme parks, adventure parks, amusement arcades, skating rinks and model villages
  • Indoor attractions where animals are exhibited, such as at zoos, aquariums, farms, safari parks and wildlife centres

The following places will remain closed

  • Nightclubs and casinos
  • Bowling alleys and indoor skating rinks
  • Indoor play areas including soft-play
  • Spas
  • Nail bars and beauty salons
  • Massage, tattoo and piercing parlours
  • Indoor fitness and dance studios, and indoor gyms and sports venues/facilities
  • Swimming pools and water parks
  • Exhibition or conference centres – other than for those who work for that venue.